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Metallic Hydrogen

Metallic hydrogen, once theory, becomes reality

Nearly a century after it was theorized, scientists have succeeded in creating metallic hydrogen. In addition to helping scientists answer fundamental questions about the nature of matter, the material is theorized to have a wide range of applications, including as a room-temperature superconductor. Ref. Source 1b.

Hydrogen Metallic

I think to a lay person saying we made metallic hydrogen doesn't mean anything. They can be excited because the article says its never been done before and it could lead to transformative science, but I don't think most people understand why. Normal hydrogen is in the a column (Or period) on the periodic table in which every other atom is a metal. A metal is defined by having free electrons to conduct electricity, which also gives it its luster (Shininess). Most metals are crystalline solids with high ductility as well. Hydrogen under normal pressure and temperature is a gas that acts more as an insulator (No electron conduction), does not reflect light, and doesn't get solid until around 14 K (14 degrees Celsius above absolute 0). There is nothing metallic about normal hydrogen, but apparently if you it put it under about 5 million times normal atmospheric pressure you can get it to change to a metal by loosening its grip on its one electron. However the kind of energy required to make this level of pressure is absurd and I don't think anything practical will come out of it unless it has some amazing properties that can quickly save more money than it costs to make it. However just studying it and seeing what makes it so cool can help lead to other discoveries that might be more cost effective.